Of Lawful Oaths and Vows

This sermon presents a theologically grounded exploration of lawful oaths and vows as acts of religious worship, emphasizing their solemnity, biblical foundation, and moral responsibility. Drawing from Scripture and the 1689 Confession, it distinguishes between assertive and promissory oaths—both of which must be taken in truth, righteousness, and judgment—and affirms that oaths are warranted in weighty matters such as legal testimony, covenant-making, and personal integrity, while rejecting vain or deceptive uses of God's name. The sermon also clarifies that vows, unlike oaths, are personal commitments made solely to God, not to creatures, and must be undertaken with care, faithfulness, and humility, avoiding rash or superstitious promises such as those found in Roman Catholic monasticism. Ultimately, the message calls believers to approach both oaths and vows with reverence, sincerity, and a commitment to truth, rejecting hypocrisy and using speech to honor God rather than manipulate or evade accountability.